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Librarians from Purdue University wanted to determine which social media platforms students use, which platforms they would like the library to use, and what content they would like to see from the library on each of these platforms. We conducted a survey at four of the nine campus libraries to determine student social media habits and preferences. Results show that students currently use Facebook, YouTube, and Snapchat more than other social media types; however, students responded that they would like to see the library on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Students wanted nearly all types of content from the libraries on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, but they did not want to receive business news or content related to library resources on Snapchat. YouTube was seen as a resource for library service information. We intend to use this information to develop improved communication channels, a clear social media presence, and a cohesive message from all campus libraries.
INTRODUCTION
In his book Tell Everyone: Why We Share and Why It Matters, Alfred Hermida states, "People are not hooked on YouTube, Twitter or Facebook but on each other. Tools and services come and go; what is constant is our human urge to share."1 Libraries are places of connection, where people connect with information, technologies, ideas, and each other. As such, libraries look for ways to increase this connection through communication. Social media is a key component of how students communicate with classmates, families, friends, and other external entities. It is essential for libraries to communicate with students regarding services, collections, events, library logistics, and more.
Purdue University is a large, land-grant university located in West Lafayette, Indiana, with an enrollment of more than forty thousand. The Purdue Libraries consist of nine libraries, presented collectively on the social media platforms Facebook and Twitter since 2009 and YouTube since 2012. Going forward, the Purdue Libraries want to ensure it establishes a cohesive message and brand that is communicated to students on platforms they use and on which they will engage with it. The purpose of this study was to determine which social media platforms the students are currently using, which platforms they would like the library to use, and what content they would like to see from the libraries on...